The IOD aligns its projects and strategic initiatives with current and emerging national, regional, and state priorities related to individuals with disabilities. A majority of IOD grants and programs are concentrated within the following areas:
Assistive Technology, Community Living & Employment, Health & Genetics, Inclusive Early Care & Education

The IOD makes significant contributions to the body of knowledge related to disability through a variety of research and evaluation activities including data analysis, focus group facilitation, model demonstration projects, or project outcome evaluation.

The IOD supports the efforts of consumers and professionals to create more inclusive communities by providing local, regional, and national services, that represent current and emerging best practices.

Dr. Susan Wirka Fox Receives Commendation from Governor Hassan Upon Her Departure to the Westchester Institute for Human Development

Dr. Susan Wirka Fox Receives Commendation from Governor Hassan Upon Her Departure to the Westchester Institute for Human Development

April 15, 2016

At the end of May, Dr. Susan Wirka Fox, Associate Director of the Institute on Disability, will be leaving the IOD to accept the position of President and Chief Executive Officer at the Westchester Institute for Human Development (WIHD). Sue has been at the IOD since 2001 and, in addition to serving as the IOD’s Associate Director, is a Clinical Assistant Professor and the Co-Director of the Center on Aging and Community Living.

While at the Institute on Disability, Dr. Fox has managed a number of research projects aimed at improving existing systems to promote access to community-based, long-term services and supports for persons with disabilities and older adults. As the Associate Director of the IOD, Dr. Fox managed a number of initiatives, including the development of the most recent five-year strategic plan.

“The impact of Sue’s exceptional career in New Hampshire will be felt for years,” says IOD Director Charles Drum. “She has led a variety of initiatives that have had a tremendous impact on the lives of older adults and individuals with disabilities and their families. While the IOD is pleased that Sue’s professional excellence and compassion has been recognized by WIHD, she will be sorely missed by the IOD and we congratulate her in her new role."

Commendation from NH Governor Hassan for Dr. Susan Fox

She has served as a founding member of the NH Governor’s Commission on Medicaid Care Management as well as on several community boards, including serving as Board President of the Office of Public Guardian.
For her exemplary work and contributions to the community and state of New Hampshire, Dr. Fox received a Commendation from Governor Maggie Hassan. The award was presented at the Governor’s Commission on Medicaid Care Management meeting on Thursday, April 14.

“Sue Fox continues to work tirelessly on developing person-centered home- and community-based services to enable adults who experience disabilities, and their families, to be supported in their home communities,” Governor Hassan states in the commendation. “[She] embodies New Hampshire’s strong tradition of inclusiveness, having demonstrated an unyielding commitment to ensuring that all New Hampshire citizens have the opportunity to live full, productive lives and engage in their communities.”

The Westchester Institute for Human Development is one of 67 University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) dedicated to improving lives of people with disabilities through education, service, and research. The Institute works to advance policies and practices that ensure the health and self-determination among people of all ages with disabilities, and the safety and well-being of vulnerable children. Learn more at www.wihd.org.